An elongated chamber for safe storage of hazardous waste and a method of safe handling of hazardous waste by the elongated chamber
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/DK2026/060029
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-18
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-24
Smart Images
Figure DK2026060029_24092026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] An elongated chamber for safe storage of hazardous waste and a method of safe handling hazardous waste by the elongated chamber
[0002] Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an elongated chamber for storage and handling of hazardous waste, having an insertion gate and a withdrawal gate with an internal locking unit that ensures that only one used container can be inserted at a time and only one empty container can be removed at a time.
[0004] The present invention further relates to a method for handling hazardous waste with the use of the elongated chamber.
[0005] Background of the Invention
[0006] Storage systems for storing hazardous waste are used worldwide to ensure proper containment of hazardous materials that would otherwise cause harm to people and / or the environment.
[0007] Currently several solutions are available on the market for storing hazardous waste. These commercial solutions can often be simplified to either store the hazardous waste in a building, container, in a shed, or merely under a roof. For most of these storages, hazardous waste can be placed in the storage by opening a gate and simply put in the container with the waste in the storage. Typically, the hazardous waste can be removed in the same manner as it is put in, which is mostly safe when the people handling the waste are trained in doing so.
[0008] Recycling centres may also contain areas for storage of hazardous waste. However, as recycling centres are available to the public, users are generally not trained in handling the hazardous waste and thus the storage solutions currently available can be unsafe. By simply leaving the hazardous waste in the storage, without securing and / or mounting the containers, doing so could in the worst case result in knocked over containers, or in other cases theft of hazardous waste.Consequently, a new type of storage for hazardous waste is needed which can ensure safe handling of the containers during use and storage, while also securing the containers in a safe manner during storage.
[0009] Object of the Invention
[0010] One objective of the present disclosure is to solve the abovementioned problems of the prior art.
[0011] One objective of the present invention is achieved by an elongated chamber having an internal lock unit that ensures that only one used container can be inserted, in cases where the insertion triggers the withdrawal of an empty container.
[0012] One objective of the present invention is achieved by a method that guarantees safe handling of hazardous waste by authorized personnel.
[0013] Description of the Invention
[0014] One objective of the invention is achieved by an elongated chamber for replacement of containers for holding hazardous waste. The elongated chamber comprises:
[0015] - an insertion gate and, distal to the insertion gate, a withdrawal gate. The elongated chamber being adapted to have a series of containers positioned from the insertion gate to the withdrawal gate;
[0016] - a replacement gate extending along a side of the elongated chamber between the insertion gate and the withdrawal gate;
[0017] wherein the elongated chamber comprises states of:
[0018] an inaccessible state, wherein the gates are closed, and the elongated chamber is inaccessible;
[0019] - an insertion state, wherein the insertion gate is open for insertion of a used container into the elongated chamber. The insertion of the used container causes the withdrawal gate to open, thereby changing the state of the elongated chamber,
[0020] - a withdrawal state, wherein the withdrawal gate is open, thereby enabling removal of an empty container. The closing of the withdrawal gate causes change of state to the inaccessible state; and- a replacement state wherein the replacement gate is open, enabling replacement of containers with empty containers through a side of the elongated chamber.
[0021] The present invention describes an elongated chamber for storing and withdrawing containers holding hazardous waste, increasing the safety and simplifying management of handling hazardous waste. When the elongated chamber is in use, the elongated chamber will comprise a series of containers, with one or more containers from the insertion gate to the withdrawal gate. When stored in the elongated chamber, the containers are substantially in contact with each other. The number of containers in the elongated chamber will vary depending on the size of the elongated chamber and the size of the containers.
[0022] Generally, the elongated chamber will be in the inaccessible state, where the insertion gate, the withdrawal gate, and the replacement gate are inaccessible. During storage of a used container, the elongated chamber will be in the insertion state. Here the insertion gate is open, and a used container can be inserted into the elongated chamber, as the insertion gate closes, the withdrawal gate will open. Thus, the elongated chamber will go from the insertion state and change to the withdrawal state.
[0023] During insertion of a used container in the elongated chamber, the inserted container will displace the series of containers inside the elongated chamber. The inserted container will push physically to the series of containers in the elongated chamber. The substantial contact between the containers in the elongated chamber will cause a domino effect that leads to a container being accessible at the withdrawal gate. Thus, the insertion of a container will ensure easy access to the empty container to be withdrawn from the withdrawal gate.
[0024] In the withdrawal state, the withdrawal gate is open and an empty container is presented. The presented empty container can be removed from the withdrawal gate. No new container will be presented, as this would require an insertion of a used container through the insertion gate. Closing the withdrawal gate will change the state of the elongated chamber from the withdrawal state to theinaccessible state. The advantage of this withdrawal state is that only one empty container will be present, as insertion is not accessible in this state.
[0025] Sometimes the containers inside the elongated chamber need to be replaced or the elongated chamber needs maintenance. To make the internal parts of the elongated chamber accessible, the elongated chamber can enter a replacement state, where the replacement gate is open. This replacement state is typically only available to administrators of the elongated chamber. The replacement state provides increased accessibility, and uncomplicated replacement of the containers inside the elongated chamber.
[0026] The elongated chamber can contain both used and empty containers. A used container is meant to be understood as containing hazardous waste and being partially full or full. An empty container is a container without hazardous waste, or a container that have just been emptied where residues from the emptied hazardous waste remains.
[0027] The containers used in the elongated chamber can also be used to store other types of waste, such as, industrial waste, organic waste, inorganic waste, biomedical waste, or E-waste.
[0028] The elongated chamber may be arranged with a suction system that removes potential harmful gases from the hazardous waste.
[0029] The elongated chamber may be in a square or rectangular shape. A square or rectangular shape would make it possible to arrange the elongated chambers into lockers. The lockers could comprise two or more elongated chamber arranged on top of each other’s in rows.
[0030] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber may comprise a further state of:
[0031] - a full state, wherein the gates are closed and opening of the insertion gate is prevented.The elongated chamber is also able to enter a full state. Typically, in the full state all of the containers inside the elongated chamber are used, and the elongated chamber is not able to present any empty containers at the withdrawal gate. In this state, opening of the insertion gate is prevented and the elongated chamber can thus not change to the insertion state. The benefit of the full state is that the elongated chamber cannot be overfilled or provide already used containers. Thereby, the full state reinforces the elongated chamber’s ability to simplify management of hazardous waste.
[0032] The prevention of opening the insertion gate can be done by decoupling the parts of the elongated chamber needed for opening the insertion gate.
[0033] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber may comprise a first lock unit accessible in the inaccessible state. The first lock unit being adapted to unlock the insertion gate thereby causing a change of state from the inaccessible state to the insertion state; and / or
[0034] the elongated chamber comprises a second lock unit accessible in the inaccessible state or the full state. The second lock unit being adapted to unlock the replacement gate thereby causing a change of state from the inaccessible state or the full state to the insertion state.
[0035] During use, the elongated chamber only has two interactive lock units, namely the first lock unit and the second lock unit. This makes the elongated chamber user-friendly, as an operator only has to consider whether the insertion stage or the replacement stage is needed for a certain task.
[0036] When inserting a used container into the elongated chamber, the first lock unit needs to be engaged, before an insertion of a used container can take place. This ensures that only authorized personnel can interact with the elongated chamber.
[0037] During use, the elongated chamber might need to have some of its containers replaced or checked, even before the elongated chamber enters its full state. This applies to cases in which containers have, for example, been inserted into the elongated chamber due to a mistake, the containers malfunction, or thecontainers has been misplaced into the elongated chamber. The second lock unit thereby enables opening of the replacement gate in the inaccessible state for maintenance is cases of malfunctioning or mistakes.
[0038] When the last empty container has been picked up from the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber enters the full state. When in the full state, the used containers inside the elongated chamber need to be replaced. The used containers cannot be removed with the withdrawal gate, as the insertion gate has been closed in the full state. The only possible access to the containers is by the replacement gate, which can be opened by the second lock unit. The second lock unit thus ensures that only authorized and / or trained personnel can handle the used containers, thereby increasing safety.
[0039] During replacement of containers in the replacement state, the same number of containers removed need to be replaced to keep physical contact between the containers. Physical contact between the series of containers is important to the presentation of empty containers during the withdrawal state possible.
[0040] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber may comprise a tension plate arranged at the insertion gate configured to be displaced during insertion of a container into the elongated chamber through the insertion gate during the insertion state and restrict removal through the insertion gate.
[0041] While a used container is inserted into the elongated chamber at the insertion gate during the displacement into the elongated chamber, the container will displace a tension plate. The tension plate may be arranged at the insertion gate and is in a shape that enables displacement of the tension plate while a container in inserted into the elongated chamber, thereby allowing displacement of a container from the insertion gate to the elongated chamber. However, once the container is fully displaced into the elongated chamber, the tension plate will go back to its original position by a biasing means and restrict displacement of a container from the elongated chamber to the insertion gate. The tension gate thus ensures that a container already inside the elongated chamber cannot be removed through the insertion gate. Another advantage is that the tension plateguarantees that the insertion state is a state where only insertion is possible. This reduces the risk of theft of the containers, while also reducing the number of possible mistakes when operating the elongated chamber.
[0042] In one aspect of the restricting mechanism of the tension plate, the mechanism could work the following way. As a used container is inserted into the elongated chamber, the used container will displace an insertion tap. The insertion tap is connected to a rod arranged with a blocking plate, where the blocking plate is above the tension plate and blocking displacement of the tension plate. When the insertion tap is displaced, the rod will rotate and displace the blocking plate out of the way temporarily. With the blocking plate out of the way, the tension plate is displaceable and will allow further insertion of a used container. When the used container has passed the insertion tap, a tension biasing means will attempt force both the insertion tap and the blocking plate towards their original and blocking positions, respectively. The container may pass the insertion tap while the tension plate is still displaced above the used container. When the insertion tap is passed and the tension plate is still above, the used container can still be displaced into the elongated chamber. First when the used container passes both the insertion tap and the tension plate, the tension biasing means is able to force the insertion tap and blocking plate into their original and blocking position, respectively.
[0043] In the above-described mechanism, there may be one insertion tap or insertion multiple taps, that needs to be displaced for the blocking plate to be displaced out of the blocking position. In one aspect, there might be an insertion tap needing to be displaced on each side of the used container.
[0044] The tension plate could be a lever, a one-way latch, a L or V shaped plate, or any shape that mechanically restricts displacement in one direction.
[0045] The tension biasing means could be a spring, a weight, pneumatic or hydraulic forces, or magnets, among other types.
[0046] In an aspect of the tension plate, the tension plate may be a L-shaped plate being rotatable at one end of the L-shape. When a container is displaced fromthe insertion gate into the elongated chamber, the L-shaped plate will rotate and allow displacement of the container into the elongated chamber. When the container is fully inserted, the L-shaped tension plate will go back to the original position and the L-shape will not allow the container to displace in the other direction.
[0047] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber may comprise a detector adapted for detecting a container at the insertion gate, and an internal lock unit accessible in the insertion state, the internal lock unit is adapted to unlock the withdrawal gate based on the detector detecting a container at the insertion gate, thereby causing a change of state to the withdrawal state.
[0048] During the insertion state, the withdrawal gate is inaccessible. When inserting a used container through the insertion gate, as the container reaches the insertion gate the container will be detected by the detector. The detector may also detect the container as the container is displaced into the elongated chamber from the insertion gate. As a reaction, the detector will activate the internal lock unit and thereby unlock the withdrawal gate and switch the state of the elongated chamber to the withdrawal state. In doing so, the withdrawal gate is now able to open and present an empty container for withdrawal. An advantage of the detector is that it restricts the withdrawal gate only to open as a response to an insertion of a used container in the elongated chamber. This ensures that there is always the correct number of containers in the elongated chamber, while also reducing the risks of incorrect operation of the elongated chamber.
[0049] The detector may be positioned close to the insertion gate.
[0050] This enables a smooth transition of the elongated chamber from the insertion state to the withdrawal state.
[0051] The detector could be a mechanical detector, such as a pressure sensor, weight sensor, lever detector, or rotation detector, among other options.The detector could be an electronical detector, such as motion sensor, proximity sensor, or a laser break sensor, among other options.
[0052] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the detector may detect displacement of the tension plate, and the detector causes upon detection activation of the internal lock unit unlocking the withdrawal gate by a mechanical linkage.
[0053] When a used container is inserted through the insertion gate, the displacement of the used container into the elongated chamber will cause the tension plate to rotate around an end of the tension plate fastened to a rod. The displacement of the tension plate would cause the rod to rotate. This rotational displacement of the rod will then cause a lever to be pulled, which is linked through one or more rods to internal lock unit, which then unlocks the withdrawal gate.
[0054] The unlocking of the withdrawal gate could be configured to occur when the inserted container encounters the closest container inside the elongated chamber. This would ensure that the withdrawal gate would open as a response to displacement of the containers within the elongated chamber and ensure that the withdrawal gate not opening pre-emptively.
[0055] Additionally, by having the withdrawal gate unlock by a mechanical linkage, ensures that no electric components are needed. There are several advantages of having a pure mechanical link between the detector and the lock at the withdrawal gate:
[0056] - the elongated chamber does not rely on an external power source, making the elongated chamber versatile in remote locations or areas without reliable electricity.
[0057] - mechanical solutions are often easier to modify for specific needs.
[0058] - mechanical solutions are typically simpler to repair and require basic tools. - reducing electricity costs.
[0059] The mechanical linkage may comprise of components such as, springs, levers, gears, rods, or a combination thereof, among other options and combinations.In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, a restriction plate may be configured to restrict displacement of a container in or out of the withdrawal gate during the withdrawal state, and closing of the withdrawal gate after withdrawal of a container causes the elongated chamber to change to the inaccessible state
[0060] After insertion of a used container, the withdrawal gate will be unlocked by the internal lock unit. During the unlocking of the internal lock, an empty container will be released for withdrawal and presented during the opening of the withdrawal gate. However, to ensure that the correct number of containers are present within the elongated chamber, only one empty container may be released during withdrawal, to secure that only one empty container gets withdrawn.
[0061] One way to restrict the number of possible empty containers withdrawn to one during the withdrawal state is by having a restriction plate. The restriction plate could be working by physically blocking displacement of containers from the elongated chamber to the withdrawal gate. The restriction plate could then be temporarily removed during unlocking of the withdrawal gate and engaged again when the container to be withdrawn is partly or completely out of the withdrawal gate.
[0062] In one aspect, the restricting mechanism of the restriction plate could work in the following manner. During insertion of a used container, the tension plate at the insertion gate will be displaced. The displacement of tension plate is mechanically linked to the restriction plate safety, which will be disengaged during displacement of the tension plate. The disengagement of the restriction plate safety makes the restriction plate displaceable, and an empty container is now able to displace the restriction plate. The displacement of the restriction plate will makes it possible for the empty container to be withdrawn from the withdrawal gate. As the tension plate at the insertion gate, returns to its non-displaced position, a restricting biasing means activates and applies a biasing force on the restriction plate safety to engage it. However, the restriction plate safety cannot engage until the restriction plate is back to its non-displaced position. Therefore, as the restriction plate is free from the empty container, the restriction plate will return to is non-displaced position and will engage the restriction plate safety.This restricts withdrawal of more than one empty container out of the withdrawal gate.
[0063] The restriction biasing means could be a spring, a weight, pneumatic or hydraulic forces, or magnets, among other types.
[0064] The restriction plate may be communicating with the internal lock unit or the detector. This would be an advantage, as the response time would be fast, and it would be a simple design in case of repair.
[0065] The restriction plate may be deactivated electronically or by mechanical linkage.
[0066] The restriction plate could be similar to the tension plate in shape; however, the restriction plate could also be a rod, a plate in a V-shape, or a flat plate, among other options.
[0067] By having the insertion gate and the withdrawal gate on opposite sides of the elongated chamber, while also having the tension plate and the restriction plate, makes the elongated chamber user-friendly and resistant to theft or unauthorized removal. The user-friendliness comes from the fact that the features described above makes operation of the elongated chamber straight forward, thereby minimizing the risks of dangerous handling of hazardous waste.
[0068] In a further embodiment of the elongated chamber, the elongated chamber may comprise a capacity detector adapted for detecting a used container at the withdrawal gate, and detection of a used container causes the capacity detector to decouple the first lock unit from the insertion gate.
[0069] When the last empty container has been withdrawn from the elongated container, a used container will be at the withdrawal gate. This will be detected by the capacity detector, and will trigger the decoupling of the first lock unit. Furthermore, when the capacity detector detects a used container at the withdrawal gate, the capacity detector may be configured to change the state of the elongated chamber to the full state. The capacity detector thus hinderswithdrawal of used containers, while the capacity detector also prevents insertion of used containers. This prevents a used container from being withdrawn, thereby increasing safety of handling waste and reduces potential injury of the operator. Furthermore, by having the capacity detector being able to switch the elongated chamber to full state by itself, ensures faster notice of the elongated chamber being full. Additionally, by having a mechanism to change the state, the risk of human errors or operators forgetting to change the state is reduced.
[0070] One way to detect a used container may be by using an asymmetry in the container. The asymmetry could be that the lid of the container gives the lid part of the container a different shape, compared to the opposite side of the container. Thus, by placing empty containers on the lid, while used containers are placed opposite, the capacity detector is able to detect if a used container is at the withdrawal gate.
[0071] This asymmetry of the containers could also be used for visualizing the capacity status of the elongated chamber while the elongated chamber is being filled. This could either be visualized by electric signals or by simply having indicators on the elongated chamber that indicate, on each spot, if a container is used or empty.
[0072] In one aspect, the capacity detector and the visualization of the number of used containers in the elongated chamber could work by the following principle. When a used container reaches its position in the elongated chamber after displacement. At that position an indicator tap would be placed, thus when the used container reaches the position, the indicator tap would be displaced, by for example the lid. Only used containers would displace the indicator tap as empty containers may be placed on their lid in the elongated chamber, which would not displace the indicator tap due to asymmetry. When displacing the indicator tap the force will go against an indicator biasing means. This indicator biasing means is connector to an indicator, which is visible placed on the elongated chamber. When a used container has displaced the indicator tap, the indicator will show to be used, this could be by a red colour. When the indicator is not displaced, the indicator will show to be empty, by for example a green colour. When the indicator tap is not displaced, the indicator tap will be forced to a non-displaced position by the indicator biasing means.The indicator biasing means could be a spring, a weight, pneumatic or hydraulic forces, or magnets, among other types.
[0073] The capacity detector could be a mechanical sensor, such as a latch sensor, weight sensor, or a pressure sensor.
[0074] The capacity detector may be an electronic detector such as, proximity sensor, touch sensor, or a laser break sensor.
[0075] An object is achieved by a method for withdrawing an empty container from an elongated chamber according to the invention being in the inaccessible state. The method comprises steps of
[0076] - changing state to the insertion state,
[0077] - inserting a used container through the insertion gate, thereby causing the withdrawal gate to open and change of the state of the elongated chamber to the withdrawal state;
[0078] - withdrawing a container from the elongated chamber;
[0079] - closing the withdrawal gate causing a change of state to the inaccessible state.
[0080] The elongated chamber is designed such that the method for withdrawing an empty container requires that a container is inserted through the insertion state. Hence a user will not receive more containers than what is inserted.
[0081] An object is achieved by a method for replacement of containers from an elongated chamber according to the invention being in the inaccessible state or a full state, wherein the method comprises steps of
[0082] changing state to the replacement state by opening the replacement gate, replacing one or more containers stored within the elongated chamber with empty containers.
[0083] The containers can be replaced via the replacement gate where there is no control on the replacement of containers. Thus, in use the replacement gate will only be openable by maintenance personal or a professional having a key or similar unlock tool for unlocking the replacement gate.Description of the Drawing
[0084] Various examples are described hereinafter with reference to the figures. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like elements will, thus, not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the examples. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated example need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular example is not necessarily limited to that example and can be practiced in any other examples even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described.
[0085] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in the figures, whereon:
[0086] Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the elongated chamber in three different states.
[0087] Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the replacement gate opening.
[0088] Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the elongated chamber in the inactive state
[0089] Fig. 4 illustrates a view of the tension plate at the insertion gate.
[0090] Fig. 5 illustrates a view of the restriction plate at the withdrawal gate.
[0091] Fig 6. illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the tension plate. Fig 7. illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the restriction plate. Fig. 8 illustrates a state diagram of the elongated chamber.
[0092] Fig. 9 illustrates the capacity detector and its function to disengage the first lock unit.
[0093] Detailed Description of the Invention
[0094] Exemplary examples will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this regard, the present examples may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Accordingly, the examples are merely described below, by referring to the figures, to explain aspects.Throughout the specification, when an element is referred to as being “connected” to another element, the element is “directly connected” to the other element, “electrically connected”, “fluidic connected” or “communicatively connected” to the other element with one or more intervening elements interposed there between.
[0095] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the terms “comprises", "comprising", "includes", and / or "including" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.
[0096] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in the present specification.
[0097] No. Item
[0098] 100 elongated chamber
[0099] 110 insertion gate
[0100] 112 first lock unit
[0101] 120 withdrawal gate
[0102] 130 replacement gate
[0103] 132 second lock unit
[0104] 140 detector
[0105] 150 internal lock unit
[0106] 200 container
[0107] 300 internal lock unit
[0108] 310 tension plate
[0109] 312 restriction plate320 withdrawal gate lock
[0110] 400 insertion tap
[0111] 410 blocking plate
[0112] 420 insertion direction
[0113] 430 tension biasing means
[0114] 440 tension plate control rod
[0115] 500 restriction biasing means
[0116] 510 restriction plate safety
[0117] 520 withdrawal direction
[0118] 530 mechanical tension plate link
[0119] 600 indicator
[0120] 610 indicator tap
[0121] 620 indicator holes
[0122] 630 first lock disengage link
[0123] 640 first lock disengage bracket
[0124] 642 first lock engaged position
[0125] 644 first lock disengaged position
[0126] 1000 inaccessible state
[0127] 1100 insertion state
[0128] 1200 withdrawal state
[0129] 1300 full state
[0130] 1400 replacement state
[0131] Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the elongated chamber 100 in three different states 1000, 1100, 1200. The elongated chamber 100 is used for safe storing and replacement of containers 200 holding hazardous waste, wherein the containers 200 are in contact with each other. The elongated chamber 100 comprises an insertion gate 110, where containers 200 can be placed into the elongated chamber 100 furthest from the withdrawal gate 120. Placed opposite to the insertion gate 110 is the withdrawal gate 120, where containers 200 can be withdrawn from the elongated chamber 100. The elongated chamber, furthermore, comprises an internal lock unit 300 that ensures safe insertion and withdrawal of the containers 200 during use. The internal lock unit 300 is connected to a tension plate 310 at the insertion gate 110, which is connected to the withdrawal gate lock 320 at the withdrawal gate 120.Fig. 1a illustrates an embodiment of the elongated chamber in the inaccessible state 1000 (not shown), where all gates 110,120,130 are closed and the elongated chamber 100 is inaccessible. In the inaccessible state 1000, it is not possible to insert or withdraw containers 200 into or from the elongated chamber 100 unless the insertion gate 110 is activated. It is not possible to activate the withdrawal gate 120, as the withdrawal gate 120 is rendered inaccessible by the internal lock unit 300, which hinders the withdrawal gate 120 from opening and thus the withdrawal gate 120 cannot be accessed unless the insertion gate 110 has been activated. In the inaccessible state 1000 the internal lock unit 300 is relaxed, where the tension plate 310 is arranged so the tension plate 310 is able to block containers 200 from displacing too close to the insertion gate 110.
[0132] Fig. 1b illustrates an embodiment of the elongated chamber 100 in the insertion stage 1100 (not shown). In the insertion stage 1100 (not shown) the insertion gate 110 is open and ready for insertion of a container 200, while the withdrawal gate 120 is closed. The insertion gate needs to be activated before opening, the activation of the insertion gate 110 could be by use of a first lock unit 112 (not shown). When the insertion gate 110 is activated, the opening could be done by sliding the insertion gate 110 laterally. The insertion gate 110 in fig. 1b is arranged in an L-shape similar to a drawer. A container 200 can be placed in the bottom of the insertional gate 110, followed by closing of the insertion gate 110. During closing of the insertion gate 110, the container 200 will displace the tension plate 310, which will lead to an opening of the internal lock unit 300.
[0133] Fig. 1c illustrate an embodiment of the elongated chamber 100 in the withdrawal state 1200 (not shown). In the withdrawal state 1200 (not shown), the withdrawal gate 120 is open and ready for withdrawal of a container 200 from the elongated chamber 100. The insertion gate 110 is closed, however have been recently opened and closed to active the internal lock unit 300. The withdrawal gate 120 cannot close unless the container 200 presented in the L-shaped insertion gate 120 is withdrawn from the elongated chamber 100. It is not possible to close the withdrawal gate 120 with a container 200 as there is no room in the elongated chamber 100. After withdrawal of the container 200, the withdrawal gate 120 is slid back into the elongated chamber and the withdrawal gate 120 is locked bythe withdrawal gate lock 320. Thereby, the elongated chamber is back in the inaccessible state 1000 (not shown).
[0134] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of embodiment of the replacement gate 130 opening. In fig. 2a the elongated chamber 100 may be in the inaccessible state 1000 (not shown) or the full state 1300 (not shown) or needed to be opened due to another reason. During normal use, the elongated chamber is sealed off and one of the sides may be arranged with a replacement gate 130. The replacement gate 130 is openable, to easier access the internal parts of the elongated chamber. The need for opening the replacement gate 130, could occur in cases where the containers 200 inside the elongated chamber 100 need to be replaced, during maintenance and repair.
[0135] In fig. 2b the replacement gate 130 has been opened revealing the internal parts of the elongated chamber 100. The replacement gate could be unlocked by a second lock unit 132. When the replacement gate 130 has been opened it is possible to replace the containers 200 within the elongated chamber 100. Furthermore, it is easier to access the parts inside the elongated chamber 100 during maintenance and repair. The opening of the replacement gate 130 could be done manually or by an electric motor.
[0136] Fig. 3 illustrates the elongated chamber 100 in the inaccessible state 1000 (not shown in fig. 3). Fig. 3 gives an overview of one embodiment of the elongated chamber 100, where the inside mechanisms of the elongated chamber 100 are accessible. In this embodiment, the elongated chamber 100 is capable of holding five containers 200, however other embodiments may be able to holder more or fewer. The used containers 200 are placed on the lid and inserted into the elongated chamber 100 through the insertion gate 110. During the insertion of a used container 200, the container 200 displaces the tension plate 310 (not shown in Fig. 3). The tension plate 310 (not shown in fig. 3), activates the detector, which unlocks the withdrawal gate (120) and temporary removes the restriction plate 312 (not shown in fig. 3), when the insertion gate 110 is substantially closed. When inserting the used container 200 through the insertion gate 110, at some point the inserted container 200 encounters the containers 200 within the elongated chamber 100. The inserted container 200 thus displaces the series ofcontainers 200 within the elongated chamber 100, and with the withdrawal gate 120 unlocked and the restriction plate 312 (not shown in fig. 3) temporarily disabled, the empty container closest to the withdrawal gate 120 will push open the withdrawal gate as a reaction to the pushing from the inserted container 200. The container 200 closest to withdrawal gate 120 will then be presented at the withdrawal gate 120 and after the presented container 200 has passed the restriction plate 312 (not shown in fig. 3), the restriction plate 312 (not shown in fig. 3) returns to its original position and restricts withdrawal of another container 200. When the presented container 200 is withdrawn, the withdrawal gate 120 can be closed and the elongated chamber 120 will return to its inaccessible state 1000 (not shown in fig. 3).
[0137] Empty containers 200 are placed on the lid in this embodiment, while used containers 200 are place on the surface opposite to the lid. By placing empty and used containers 200 differently, the containers 200 asymmetry can be used to track how many of the containers 200 within the elongated chamber 100 that has been used. Additionally, fig. 3 visualizes how the elongated chamber 100, fills from the insertion gate 110 to the withdrawal gate 120. When the last empty container 200 has been withdrawn, a capacity detector detects that all the containers are used and the elongated chamber 100 will enter the full state 1300 (not shown in fig. 3).
[0138] Fig. 4 illustrates a view of the tension plate 310 at the insertion gate 110. The illustration in Fig. 4b shows a magnified view of the elongated chamber 100 at the insertion gate 110 as visualized by the dotted square around the insertion gate 110 on Fig. 4a. The magnified illustration Fig. 4b, is a view from the opposite side of the one shown in Fig. 4a, due to the opposite side giving at better view of the tension plate 310. In Fig. 4b the tension plate 310 is in a restricting position and thus restricts displacement of the container 200 towards the insertion gate 110. This position of the tension plate 310 ensures that a container 200 already inserted into the elongated chamber 100 cannot be withdrawn during the insertion state 1100 through the insertion gate 110. When insertion a used container 200 into the elongated chamber 100 through the insertion gate 110, the tension plate 310 will displace as the inserted container 200 displaces intoelongated chamber 100. When the inserted container 200 is past the tension plate 310 will return to the position seen in Fig. 4b by tension biasing means.
[0139] Fig. 5 illustrates a view of the restriction plate 312 at the withdrawal gate 120. The illustration in Fig. 5b shows a magnified view of the elongated chamber 100 at the withdrawal gate 120 as visualized by the dotted square around the withdrawal gate 120 on Fig. 5a. In the magnified illustration Fig. 5b, the restriction plate 312 is arranged in the middle of the illustration and restricts displacement of a container 200 from the elongated chamber 100 to the withdrawal gate 120 unless insertion of a container 200 have unlocked the withdrawal gate 120. Furthermore, the restriction plate 312 also functions to hinder removal of more than one container 200 through the withdrawal gate 120 during the withdrawal state 1200. After an insertion state 1100 (not shown), the elongated chamber 100 will enter the withdrawal state 1200. At the start of the withdrawal state 1200 (not shown), the restriction plate 312 is displaceable, so that when the next container 200 is displaced towards the withdrawal gate 120, the container 200 will displace the restriction plate 312. When the container 200 have passed the restriction plate 312, the restriction plate 312 will return to the position seen in Fig. 4b and be locked until at new insertion state 1100 (not shown) have unlocked the withdrawal gate 120 and the restriction plate 312.
[0140] Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the tension plate 310. Fig 6 illustrates what happens during the insertion of a container through the insertion gate 110 (not shown) and how the tension plate 310 is displaced. As a container 200 is being inserted into the elongated chamber 100 in the insertion direction 420, the container 200 encounters the insertion tap 400, which is displaced as the container 200 is displaced in the insertion direction 420. As the insertion tap 400 is displaced, the tension plate control rod is rotated around. This disengages the blocking plate 410 which enable displacement of the tension plate 310. It is then possible for the container 200 to displace further into the elongated chamber 100 (not shown). When the container 200 has fully passed the insertion tap 400, the tension biasing means being to apply a biasing force unto the tension plate 310 for the blocking plate 410 to return to its blocking position. However, as long as the tension plate 310 is on the container 200, the blocking plate 410 is not allowed to displace to its blocking position. As soon as the container 200 passesthe tension plate 310, the tension plate 310 will return to the position illustrated in Fig. 6 and the blocking plate 410 return to its blocking position where the blocking plate 410 restricts displacement of the tension plate 310 and thereby displacement of the containers 200 in the opposite direction of the insertion direction 420.
[0141] Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the restriction plate 312. Fig.7. illustrates how the restriction plate 312 functions during the withdrawal of an empty container 200 from the elongated chamber 100 (not shown). The tension plate 310 (not shown) will displace as a container 200 is inserted into the elongated chamber 100 (not shown). The displacement of the tension plate 310 (not shown) will disengage the restriction plate safety 510 through the mechanical tension plate link 530, were the wavy end illustrates that the end of the mechanical link is not shown but extends further. When the restriction plate safety 510 is disengaged, the restriction plate 312 is displaceable as the next container 200 to be withdrawn displaces in the withdrawal direction 520. When the restriction plate 312 is on the container 200 as the container 200 displaces in the withdrawal direction 520, the restriction plate 312 is able to hold the restriction plate safety 510 by being on top of the container 200. When the inserted container 200 at the tension plate 310 (not shown) is passed the tension plate 310 (not shown) it does not hold the restriction plate safety 310 anymore, and the restriction plate safety 510 is hold only by the restriction plate 312 being on the container 200 to be withdrawn. When the container 200 to be withdrawn is passes the restriction plate 312, the restriction plate will go to the position illustrated in Fig 7 and the restriction plate safety 312 will be engaged once again, with help from a restriction biasing means 500. Now the restriction plate is no longer displaceable until the next container 200 being inserted and displacing the tension plate 310 (not shown).
[0142] Fig. 9 illustrates a state diagram of the elongated chamber 100. The elongated chamber 100 comprises states of:
[0143] - an inaccessible state 1000, wherein the gates 110,120,130 are closed and the elongated chamber 100 is inaccessible. The state can be changed to the insertion state 1000 by unlocking the insertion gate;- an insertion state 1100, wherein the insertion gate 110 is open for insertion of a used container 200 into the elongated chamber 110, wherein the insertion of the used container 200 causes the withdrawal gate 120 to open, thereby changing the state of the elongated chamber 100. The containers 200 are placed close together along the elongated chamber 100 such that insertion of a container 200 causes the distal container to press against the withdrawal gate 120;
[0144] - a withdrawal state 1200, wherein the withdrawal gate 120 is open, thereby enabling removal of an empty container 200 the closing of the withdrawal gate 120 causes change of state to the inaccessible state 1000; and - a replacement state 1400, wherein the replacement gate 130 is open causing a change of state to the replacement state. In the replacement state 1400 replacement of containers 200 with empty containers 200 through a side of the elongated chamber 100 is enabled; and
[0145] - a full state 1300, wherein the gates 110,120,130 are closed and opening of the insertion gate is prevented. Thereby, the only gate which can be opened is the replacement gate 130. Thus, from the full state 1300 the elongated chamber 100 can only change to the replacement state 1400.
[0146] Fig. 9 illustrates the capacity detector and its function to disengage the first lock unit 112 (not shown). When a container 200 reaches its position within the elongated chamber 100, if the container 200 is used the container 200 will engage the indicator tap 610, while if the container is empty, it will not engage the indicator tap 610, due to asymmetry of the container 200 and how it is placed within the container. If the container 200 engages and displaces the indicator tap 610, it will displace an indicator biasing means. The indicator biasing means is connected to an indicator, which is visibly arranged on the elongated chamber 100. This could be either directly visible or indirectly through indicator holes 620 in the elongated chamber 100. When the indicator tap 610 is displaced the indicator 600 will be a colour associated with full, for example red. While if the indicator tap 610 is not engaged the indicator will be a colour associated with empty, for example green. The capacity detector at the withdrawal gate 120 works just like a indicator, however the indicator tap 610 of the capacity detector is also connected to a first lock disengage bracket 640 arranged at the insertion gate 110. The connection between the capacity detector indicator tap 610 andthe first lock disengage bracket 640 is established by the first lock disengage link 630. When the capacity indicator tap 610 is in its non-displaced position, the first lock unit 112 (not shown) meets resistance, in the first lock engaged position 642, within the first lock disengage bracket 640 and can thus open the insertion gate 120. However, when the capacity detector indicator tap 610 is engaged and displaced, the first lock unit 112 (not shown) does not meet resistance, in the first lock disengaged position 442, and free-flows within the first lock disengage unit 640 and the insertion gate 110 cannot be opened.
Claims
CLAIMS1. An elongated chamber (100) for replacement of containers (200) for holding hazardous waste; the elongated chamber (100) comprises:- an insertion gate (110) and, distal to the insertion gate (110), a withdrawal gate (120), wherein the elongated chamber (100) being adapted to have a series of containers (200) positioned from the insertion gate (110) to the withdrawal gate (120); and- a replacement gate (130) extending along a side of the elongated chamber (100) between the insertion gate (110) and the withdrawal gate (120);wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises states of:- an inaccessible state (1000), wherein the gates (110,120,130) are closed and the elongated chamber (100) is inaccessible;- an insertion state (1100), wherein the insertion gate (110) is open for insertion of a used container (200) into the elongated chamber (110), wherein the insertion of the used container (200) causes the withdrawal gate (120) to open, thereby changing the state of the elongated chamber (100);- a withdrawal state (1200), wherein the withdrawal gate (120) is open, thereby enabling removal of an empty container (200), the closing of the withdrawal gate (120) causes change of state to the inaccessible state (1000); and- a replacement state (1400), wherein the replacement gate (130) is open, enabling replacement of containers (200) with empty containers (200) through a side of the elongated chamber (100).
2. An elongated chamber (100) according to claim 1, wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a further state of:- a full state (1300), wherein the gates (110,120,130) are closed and opening of the insertion gate is prevented.
3. An elongated chamber (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a first lock unit (112) accessible in the inaccessible state (1000), wherein the first lock unit (112) being adapted to unlock theinsertion gate (110) thereby causing a change of state from the inaccessible state (1000) to the insertion state (1100); and / orwherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a second lock unit (132) accessible in the inaccessible state (1000) or the full state (1300), wherein the second lock unit (132) being adapted to unlock the replacement gate (130), thereby causing a change of state from the inaccessible state (1000) or the full state (1300) to the insertion state (1100).
4. An elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a tension plate (310) arranged at the insertion gate (110) configured to be displaced during insertion of a container (200) into the elongated chamber (100) through the insertion gate (110) during the insertion state (1100), and restrict removal through the insertion gate (110).
5. An elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a detector (140) adapted for detecting a container (200) at the insertion gate (110), and an internal lock unit (150) accessible in the insertion state (1100), the internal lock unit (150) is adapted to unlock the withdrawal gate (120) based on the detector (140) detecting a container (200) at the insertion gate (110), thereby causing a change of state to the withdrawal state (1200).
6. An elongated chamber (100) according to claim 5, wherein the detector detects displacement of the tension plate (310), and the detector, upon detection activation of the internal lock unit (150), causes the withdrawal gate (120) to be unlocked by a mechanical linkage.
7. An elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the restriction plate (312) is configured to restrict displacement of a container (200) in or out of the withdrawal gate (120) during the withdrawal state (1200), and closing of the withdrawal gate (120) after withdrawal of a container (200) causes the elongated chamber (100) change to the inaccessible state (1000).
8. An elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the elongated chamber (100) comprises a capacity detector adapted for detecting aused container (200) at the withdrawal gate (120), and detection of a used container causes the capacity detector to decouple the first lock unit from the insertion gate (110).
9. A method for withdrawing an empty container from an elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 8 being in the inaccessible state (1000), wherein the method comprises steps of- changing state to the insertion state (1100),- inserting a used container through the insertion gate (110), thereby causing the withdrawal gate (120) to open and change of the state of the elongated chamber (100) to the withdrawal state (1200);- withdrawing a container from the elongated chamber (100);- closing the withdrawal gate (120) causing a change of state to the inaccessible state (1000).
10. A method for replacement of containers (200) from an elongated chamber (100) according to any of claims 1 to 8 being in the inaccessible state (1000) or a full state (), wherein the method comprises steps of- changing state to the replacement state (1400) by opening the replacement gate,- replacing one or more containers (200) stored within the elongated chamber (100) with empty containers (200);